COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2022
GRAPE
Chardonnay
PRODUCER
Shafer Vineyards
REGION
California
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium - Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium - High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
The Shafer Vineyards Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay 2022 hails from the Los Carneros AVA in Napa Valley, California. The wine's identity is shaped by its origin at the Red Shoulder Ranch vineyard, named in recognition of the birds of prey integral to Shafer's sustainable farming practices. Shafer Vineyards, a family-owned winery founded in 1972, is known for its dedication to quality and European-influenced winemaking. This Chardonnay distinguishes itself through its vibrant acidity and a winemaking approach that intentionally bypasses malolactic fermentation to maintain its natural freshness.
ALCOHOL
14.5%
AVG. PRICE
€70
STYLE
Classic
VEGAN
YES
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Later
Ideal temperature
10-13°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Vineyard named after Red-shouldered Hawks for sustainable pest control.
Fact 02
Wine avoids malolactic fermentation for preserved freshness.
Fact 03
Fermented with native yeasts in individual barrels.
Fact 04
Shafer Vineyards is a family-owned estate since 1972.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking process for Shafer Vineyards Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay 2022 begins with whole-cluster pressing. The juice is then fermented using native yeasts in individual barrels, with 75% of the wine aging in new French oak and 25% in stainless steel barrels. A significant aspect of its production is the deliberate avoidance of malolactic fermentation, preserving the wine's natural acidity. The Chardonnay matures on its lees for 14 months, a technique that enhances texture and complexity. Shafer Vineyards utilizes sustainable farming practices in its vineyards, including at Red Shoulder Ranch.
